Malaysia has Revised its Cosmetics Regulations

On July 4, 2023, the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) of Malaysia issued Announcement No. 2/2023, to revise the Guidelines for Control of Cosmetic Products in Malaysia.

Major changes

• A total of 19 prohibited substances have been added based on the requirements of ASEAN Cosmetics Directive (ACD) [see below], including 2-Chloroacetamide, Acetaldehyde, Quinoline, Styrene, and Vinyl acetate. Many of these substances were classified as CMR substances. The transitional period for existing products will continue until May 8, 2025.
• Three substances have been added to the restricted substances list. They are Benzoic acid, 2-hydroxy- (CAS No.: 69-72-7), Methyl N-methyl anthra- nilate (CAS No.: 85-91-6), and Ammonium Silver Zinc Aluminium Silicate (CAS No.: 130328-20-0). All cosmetics containing restricted substances will be prohibited from sale without approval after the Regulations come into effect.
• Two substances are allowed for use, they are: (1) Sodium hydroxymethylamino acetate. (2) 2-cyano-3, 3-diphenylacrylic acid, 2-ethylhexyl ester (CAS No.: 6197-30-4).

The ASEAN Cosmetics Directive (ACD) is a framework covering the manufacturing, import, and sales of cosmetics in the ten ASEAN member countries, aimed at coordinating cosmetics regulations across the entire ASEAN region. It is an agreement among ASEAN countries to harmonize the requirements of cosmetic products so as to reduce technical barriers to trade in the region. All ASEAN member countries must incorporate the revised content of the ACD into their national legislation. Malaysia has updated its cosmetic substances list so it aligns with the revision the ACD passed during the 36th and 37th ASEAN Cosmetics Committee (ACC) meetings held in November last year and May this year.

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